There was sadness when reflecting on those that paid the ultimate sacrifice in protecting their country 100 years ago at Gallipoli, but also happiness that residents now have the opportunity to live the way they do today. 

Leeton RSL Sub-branch president John Power was impressed with the support Anzac Day was given this year. 

“Everything went really well,” Mr Power said. 

“It was a great way to mark the centenary year and I’m sure the next couple of years will be just as big. 

“We’ve still got three more years of centenary commemorations.”

Mr Power said there were many highlights for him during the various services on the day. 

“I think we had about 1500 people at the dawn service, which was amazing,” he said. 

“The dawn service is always my favourite one each year. 

“People really seemed to enjoy the welcome to country by William Ingram and the playing of the didgeridoo. 

“That gave the service a bit more of an Australian feeling. It was very special.”

Mr Power said the occasion was marked in the way it deserved. 

“Everyone that was involved did such a great job,” he said. 

All of the schools looked fantastic. 

“They do every year, but it was really nice to have so many young people taking part this year. 

“People even travelled from out of town to take part. 

“They were here because they had some kind of connection to Leeton. 

“Some had a grandparent or uncle that were from Leeton that were part of a war. 

“That was really great to see.

“They wanted to be part of the Leeton commemorations.”

Mr Power said the respect shown by residents on the day was pleasing. 

“It is great to see the Anzac tradition being carried out by both young and old,” he said. 

“I enjoyed seeing some of the veterans, particularly the Vietnam veterans, marching with their children and grandchildren. 

“It was great to see and I know they really enjoyed it.”

Mr Power said services in the coming years would be just as poignant. 

“There’s still three more years of the centenary (of World War I),” he said. 

“We’ve already got a few ideas up our sleeve about what we would like to do to mark that. 

“It’s important that we do recognise the significance of what happened in World War I.

“Hopefully we will continue to be supported on Anzac Day. 

“It has been building over the last couple of years. The crowds this year were excellent, so hopefully that continues for many years.”